student biking past BJC
Apr 03

Cyclists, Others Traveling Across Campus Urged to Be Predictable, Visible

University Park, PA — As the number of cyclists and others traveling across Penn State campuses continues to grow, University Police and Public Safety (UPPS), Transportation Services, and the University as a whole remain committed to the safety of all, regardless of their means of travel. With the arrival of spring and warmer weather, an increased number of students, faculty, and staff will be walking, bicycling, and using other personal mobility devices to get to, from, and around campus. 

Be Visible, Be Predictable 

When bicycling or using any other personal mobility device, all are reminded of the following essential safety reminders based on recommendations from the League of America Bicyclists. 


Be Visible 

  • Be aware of blind spots and ride where people can see you. 
  • Wear bright clothing. 
  • Use a front white light, red rear light, and reflectors. 
  • Make eye contact with others. 

Be Predictable 

  • Obey traffic signals and stop at stop signs. 
  • Travel with traffic and use the rightmost lane headed in the direction you are going. 
  • Ride in a straight line. 
  • Yield to pedestrians. 
  • Signal turns and check behind you well before turning or changing lanes. 


"Remaining visible and predictable while traveling across campus is crucial for ensuring the safety of everyone,” notes Jason Thomas, special projects manager at Transportation Services. “By making yourself seen and following traffic rules, you help create a safer environment for all campus travelers." 
Community members should also familiarize themselves with Penn State Policy PS02 (formerly SY16) (https://policy.psu.edu/policies/sy16) and the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code (https://bit.ly/3mSsuzP) before traveling to ensure compliance with campus and state rules regarding bikes and other mobility devices.  

Failing to use bike lights between dusk and dawn, not stopping at stop signs, failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, and other moving violations can result in being ticketed. Riders ticketed on campus are eligible to have their first ticket waived by completing an online training program within 10 days of the ticket date. 

“By being aware of your surroundings and following safety guidelines, you can help ensure a safer environment for everyone,” noted Officer Shelly Stevick, community oriented policing officer at University Police and Public Safety. “Your personal safety and the safety of others depend on your actions." 

Upcoming Events 

University Police and Public Safety and Transportation Services will host several events throughout April to promote safety and awareness for community members: 
 

  • Wednesday, April 16, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Bike Registration and Safety Event in front of the HUB on Pollock Road. 
     

  • Wednesday, April 23, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Bike Registration and Safety Event in front of the Westgate Building at the corner of Burrowes and Pollock Roads. 

At these events, Transportation Services staff will be on hand to do bicycle checks and tune-ups, and University Police will be on hand to answer questions related to PS03, the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, and more. 

For more information on bicycle safety, please visit biking.psu.edu.